Center of Excellence

UNM College of Nursing Earns National Recognition for Student Learning and Professional Development

Whether taking the first steps to earn a bachelor of science in nursing or gaining deeper understanding of complex problems in a graduate program, students at The University of New Mexico College of Nursing receive a top-notch education.

The College was recently recognized nationally for its excellence in enhancing student learning and professional development.

The National League for Nursing (NLN) has designated UNM a Center of Excellence in Nursing Education in the category of Creating Environments that Enhance Student Learning and Professional Development. The League’s Center of Excellence in Nursing Education program acknowledges the outstanding innovations, commitment and sustainability of excellence in nursing schools and health care organizations.

“NLN Centers of Excellence help raise the bar for all nursing programs by role-modeling visionary leadership and environments of inclusive excellence that nurture the next generation of a strong and diverse nursing workforce to advance the health of the nation and the global community,” said Beverly Malone, PhD, RN, FANN, the organization’ president and CEO.

“UNM provides extensive opportunities outside of the classroom, innovative and engaging coursework and research opportunities, and programs that improve student access to education,” said Christine E. Kasper, PhD, RN, dean of the College of Nursing. “We’re proud to be named a Center of Excellence, but we are also so proud of the Lobo nursing students who show up every day for their patients, communities and each other. They are the reason we do this.”

Clinical experiences go beyond the hospital, providing support for tribal public health and providing free health screenings for seniors in Albuquerque area community centers. Undergraduate students can make professional connections working as interns in local partner hospitals, attending national conferences or receiving mentorship as an undergraduate researcher in the Departmental Honors program. UNM student nurses have access to state-of-the-art classrooms and labs, practicing their skills on lifelike manikins that closely mimic a human’s reaction.

The College also delivers entirely online RN-to-BSN program and mostly online doctoral programs designed to meet the needs of working nurses across New Mexico and beyond. The programs utilize curricula that meet the highest standards for web-based courses, ensuring students can access a high-quality, affordable education wherever they are.

From excelling in providing online courses to working nurses across the state to unique student experiences in tribal and community health, the UNM College of Nursing invests in student experiences outside of the classroom while developing professional skills and connections.